In response to a writ petition seeking direction to organise a yoga programme on June 21 ­ International Yoga Day ­ in front of the historic Charminar.

The high court on Friday permitted petitioner T Uma Mahendra, a BJP leader, to organise the programme at Quli Qutub Shah Stadium with its inaugural programme near Charminar. The BJP leader approached the HC after the Charminar police denied him permission.

Charminar ACP K Ashok Chakravarthy filed a counter stating that the stretch from Charminar to Gulzar Houz is busy. He also stated that there are three historic mosques located in the area and hence permission could not be granted.

The police also suggested that the petitioner conduct the programme at Quli Qutub Shah Stadium and not near Charminar. Further, the police also said that is a lot of movement of people early in the morning for fajar prayers and at night for taraweeh. After hearing the counsels for both petitioner and police, Justice A V Sesha Sai gave the order.